Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha participated in the Bihar Day celebrations hosted at Jammu Kashmir Raj Bhawan in Jammu, extending his warm greetings to the people of Bihar.
He emphasized Bihar’s historical significance, highlighting its rich spiritual, historical, and cultural heritage. “Bihar, particularly Magadha, was a pivotal center of education and culture. The Maurya Empire, India’s first unified empire, originated here. From education and culture to science, literature, and spirituality, Bihar has consistently made significant contributions through the innovation and diligence of its people,” he stated.
Addressing the audience, the Lieutenant Governor acknowledged Bihar’s cultural, educational, and spiritual legacy, paying tribute to its eminent figures. He noted, “The concentration of holy sites like Baba Baijnath Dham, Gaya, Vishnupad Temple, Janaki Temple, Bodhgaya, Takht Shri Harimandir Sahib Ji, Kundagram, and Pawapuri within one state is truly remarkable.”
He further underscored Bihar’s historical prominence in higher education. “Ancient Bihar was a major hub for advanced learning, attracting students globally to Nalanda and Vikramshila Universities. Nalanda’s library was renowned as the world’s largest. Additionally, Bihar is home to numerous significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites, including Bodhgaya, Rajgir, and Griddhakuta, where Mahatma Buddha delivered many sermons.”
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted Bihar’s literary legacy. “Bihar boasts a rich literary tradition, from Chanakya, Banbhatta, Aryabhatta, and Vidyapati to modern writers like Phanishwarnath Renu, Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, and Baba Nagarjun.”
He then discussed Bihar’s post-independence development and its contribution to India’s progress. “Historically, Bihar was one of India’s most developed states. The first five-year plan recognized Bihar, along with Mumbai and Chennai, as leaders in small industry training, financial support, and industrial management. For decades, Bihar produced numerous IAS and IPS officers, significantly contributing to nation-building.”
The Lieutenant Governor expressed his hope for Bihar’s continued progress, stating, “Bihar has regained its dynamism in the 21st century, emerging as a key player in India’s development and competing with developed states in industrial growth. I wish the people of Bihar health, prosperity, and well-being.”
The event was attended by senior officials, heads of educational institutions, students, and Bihar residents living in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
